Did you know Onex emerged as an independent municipality back in 1851? This happened when Onex-Confignon split. For centuries, Onex was a quiet agricultural village.
Now, let’s dive into the story of Onex. Imagine stepping back to the mid-20th century. Onex was mostly fields and farms. But a transformation was brewing. The canton recognized a growing need for housing near Geneva. They encouraged Onex to sell some land.
In the 1960s, Onex sold 11 hectares to the Cité-Nouvelle Foundation. This foundation aimed to tackle Geneva’s housing shortage. They erected apartment blocks of nine to fifteen stories. Cité-Nouvelle became one of the first high-density housing projects outside Geneva.
This marked a pivotal change for Onex. Between 1950 and 1970, the population exploded. It surged from under 1000 residents to over 13000. The village’s economy shifted dramatically. Agriculture gave way to commuter and service industries. By 2000, about 90% of residents commuted to jobs outside Onex. By 2005, around 90% of jobs within Onex were in the service sector.
Today, Onex maintains its unique character. It proudly stands on the left bank of the Rhone river. It is divided into sub-sections each with its own feel. These include Cressy-Marais Evaux Cité-Nouvelle Gros-Chêne Pré-Longet Belle-Cour and Onex-village.
Let’s talk about who calls Onex home. As of 2020, Onex had a population of 18933. A significant portion, about 33.7% in 2008, are resident foreign nationals. The most common languages spoken here reflect this diversity. French is the most prevalent. Italian and Portuguese follow.
Interestingly, the entire village of Onex is recognized as part of the Inventory of Swiss Heritage Sites. This designation highlights the area’s historical and cultural significance. It protects its unique charm for generations to come.
Onex maintains international connections. It is twinned with Liestal and Massagno in Switzerland. It also shares ties with Bandol in France. These partnerships foster cultural exchange and friendship.
As we conclude our visit to Onex remember its journey. From a small agricultural village to a bustling municipality. Onex has adapted and grown while retaining its heritage. Its story reflects Geneva’s dynamic spirit. A blend of tradition and progress.